Cover Letter Organization and Format
To be effective, your cover letter should follow the basic format of a typical business letter and should address three general issues:
First paragraph - Why you are writing.
in some cases you may have been referred to an employer by a friend or acquaintance. Be sure to mention this contact by name.
If you are writing in response to a job advertisement indicate where you learned of this position. Express your enthusiasm.
If you are writing a prospecting letter (letter of inquiry) state your specific job objective - Catch the reader's attention!
Middle Paragraphs - What you have to offer.
List how your abilities relate to the position when responding to a job posting.
In a prospecting letter express how you can fulfill the employers needs. Give specifics about your achievements.
Emphasize your achievements and problem-solving skills. Show how your education and work skills are relevant.
Concluding Paragraph (The Close) - How you will follow up.
Indicate that you will follow up with a phone call to set up an appointment at a mutually convenient time.
In some instances you will be responding to a 'blind' ad or the employer specifically states "no phone calls". Be sure to state how you can be contacted.
In conclusion, you may indicate that your references are available on request.
